Gumdrop cake

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Medium

Introduction:

Gumdrop Cake is a nostalgic, fruity dessert that has been a favorite in many households for generations. The combination of colorful gumdrops, a soft, moist cake, and warm spices creates a festive treat that’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just when you’re craving a sweet, satisfying cake. This cake features a rich, buttery flavor with chewy pieces of gumdrops throughout, making each bite both sweet and a bit chewy.

While it’s often associated with Christmas or other holiday celebrations, Gumdrop Cake is a wonderful treat to enjoy year-round. The cake is easy to make and can be personalized with your favorite gumdrop flavors, giving you a custom twist on this classic. Whether served with a cup of tea or as part of a festive dessert spread, this cake is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 cups granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup milk

  • 2 1/2 cups mixed gumdrops (cut into small pieces)

• For the Cake Coat:

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added texture)

• For the Glaze (optional):

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

  • 2-3 teaspoons milk or water

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan or a 10-inch tube pan. This will help ensure the cake comes out smoothly after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Gumdrops

Cut your gumdrops into small pieces (about 1/2-inch). This step is important because larger pieces will not distribute evenly throughout the cake and can create pockets of gumdrop chunks that may burn while baking. Toss the cut gumdrops in about 2 tablespoons of flour, making sure they are coated. This will help keep them from sinking to the bottom of the cake as it bakes.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set this mixture aside for later.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This will help the cake become light and airy.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. The batter will be thick and smooth.

Step 7: Fold in the Gumdrops

Gently fold in the flour-coated gumdrops and nuts (if using). Be sure to distribute the gumdrops evenly throughout the batter, but be careful not to overmix.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt or tube pan, spreading it out evenly. Tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown, and the cake should have risen to form a rounded top.

If the cake begins to brown too quickly on top but is not fully baked, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to remove the cake. Let the cake cool completely before serving or glazing.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

If you’d like to add a glaze, combine the powdered sugar and 2-3 teaspoons of milk or water in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely touch of sweetness and shine.

Tips for Success:

• Gumdrops: Be sure to use a variety of gumdrops for both color and flavor. If you prefer a less sticky cake, you can substitute the gumdrops with chopped dried fruit or even chocolate chips.

• Coating the Gumdrops: Tossing the gumdrops in flour helps keep them suspended in the batter and prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. This step is important for achieving an evenly textured cake.

• Cake Consistency: If the batter seems too thick after adding the dry ingredients, you can add an extra tablespoon of milk at a time to reach your desired consistency. The batter should be thick but spreadable.

• Baking Pan: If you don’t have a bundt or tube pan, you can use a standard 9×13-inch baking pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, and check for doneness with a toothpick or cake tester.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 300 kcal

• Total Fat: 15g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Cholesterol: 70mg

• Sodium: 200mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 40g

• Dietary Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 27g

• Protein: 2g

(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on the type and amount of gumdrops and nuts used, as well as any optional glaze added.)

Conclusion:

Gumdrop Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the nostalgic sweetness of gumdrops with the rich flavor of a homemade cake. This cake is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just as a fun treat for the whole family. With its colorful, chewy gumdrops embedded in a buttery cake, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you decide to add the optional glaze or enjoy it plain, this Gumdrop Cake is sure to become a favorite! Enjoy the chewy, sweet, and spiced layers of flavor that make this cake truly special.